What Is IDIOT Syndrome? Know Its Scientific Name And The Negative Impacts It Has On Health

Referred to as 'Cyberchondria' in medical terms, the IDIOT syndrome occurs when patients abruptly quit their treatment because they have blindly trusted internet based medical information. 

IDIOT Syndrome: Know Its Scientific Name And The Negative Impacts It Has On Health

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What Is IDIOT Syndrome: The Internet is a boon in today's time with everything being available to us in a few searches. Topping with AI, the audience can access all kinds of information that they need without having to do much work and research. While this is really helpful in many ways, it has created an unfavourable situation when it comes to healthcare. People, nowadays, are seeking help from the internet to find answers to their health conditions and are falling prey to self and wrong diagnosis. This is what the IDIOT Syndrome is all about.

Referred to as 'Cyberchondria' in medical terms, the IDIOT syndrome stands for Internet Derived Information Obstruction Treatment and occurs when patients abruptly quit their treatment because they have blindly trusted Internet medical information. 

Explaining this, Dr. Brunda M S, Consultant - Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore said, "IDIOT Syndrome is where the patients tend to self-diagnose with the help of the Internet."

"At times, information on social media can be generic and sometimes misleading too. Patients discontinue their treatment and medication based on information present on the internet, and it further worsens the problem. Engaging in unnecessary online searches for medical information, experiencing distress due to the information found online, assuming one has a serious illness despite having a minor ailment and constantly worrying about the same are the common symptoms," she added.

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How IDIOT Syndrome Affects Individuals:

IDIOT Syndrome profoundly affects individuals mentally, fostering a mindset where patients begin to distrust medical professionals and opt for self-medication. In addition, this behaviour can significantly impact their health and disrupt ongoing treatment plans. 

Dr. Narendra Prasad, Senior Consultant -Internal Medicine & HIV Medicine, SPARSH Hospital, Yelahanka, Bangalore said, "Accessing health information online can be beneficial for understanding and clarifying symptoms quickly. However, it can also be dangerous and misleading. Incorrect self-medication and unnecessary medical tests are common outcomes of relying solely on internet searches for medical advice."

Explaining how IDIOT Syndrome can have significant negative impacts on health and treatment outcomes in the long term, Dr Ather Pasha, Consultant Internal Medicine, CARE Hospitals Banjara Hills Hyderabad said:

• Misinformation: The internet is a vast source of information, but it's not always accurate or reliable. Patients with IDIOT syndrome may come across misleading or incorrect information that convinces them to stop their treatment or medication prematurely. This misinformation can lead to a worsening of their condition or the development of complications.
• Lack of Professional Guidance: Medical treatments are typically prescribed by healthcare professionals who have the training and expertise to make informed decisions about a patient's care. When patients rely on Internet information to make decisions about their treatment, they bypass this professional guidance, which can result in suboptimal treatment outcomes.
• Incomplete Understanding: Medical conditions and treatments can be complex, and internet information may not provide a comprehensive understanding of the factors involved. Patients with IDIOT syndrome may discontinue treatment without fully understanding the reasons behind it or the potential consequences of their actions.
• Risk of Relapse or Progression: Many medical conditions require ongoing treatment to manage symptoms, prevent relapse, or slow disease progression. Discontinuing treatment based on Internet information can increase the risk of relapse or progression of the underlying condition, leading to worsened health outcomes over time.
• Delay in Seeking Help: If patients stop their treatment without consulting a healthcare professional, they may delay seeking help when their condition worsens. This delay can result in missed opportunities for early intervention and treatment adjustments that could have improved outcomes.
• Psychological Impact: Living with a chronic or serious medical condition can be stressful, and seeking information online is a common way for patients to cope. However, encountering conflicting or alarming information can increase anxiety and uncertainty, leading patients to make impulsive decisions about their treatment.

Dr. Brunda said, "Individuals diagnosed with idiot syndrome should prioritise discernment when consuming online information. Recognising that not all content is reliable, they must exercise caution and seek verified sources. When it comes to medical decisions, consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for making informed choices. Embracing self-reflection and incorporating meditation practices can effectively manage anxiety levels. Moreover, having a supportive environment is crucial for personal development and well-being."